Brumbies snap up South African speedster

TRANSFER NEWS: South African utility back James Verity-Amm has signed a one-year contract with the Super Rugby franchise the Brumbies.

Verity-Am, originally born in Kroonstad in the Free State Province of South Africa, joins the Brumbies from the Western Force.

He attended Hottentots Holland High School in the Western Cape.

Verity-Amm graduated through to the Western Province age grade teams following his schooling culminating in election for the Under-21 side in 2014.

2015 was a breakout year for Verity-Amm, the 23-year old representing the University of Western Cape (UWC) in the Varsity Cup and leading the competition with 13 tries, including an impressive three hat-tricks.

Verity-Amm would make the move to Perth to link up with the Future Force in early 2016 before making his Super Rugby debut with the Western Force the following year.

The versatile back would go on to make eight appearances for the Force during the 2017 season, proving he could cut it at the top level as the Perth side charged to second place in the Australian Conference.

Brumbies Head Coach Dan McKellar said he was looking forward to having Verity-Amm join the squad.

"We are very happy that James has decided to join the Brumbies for the 2018 season and are sure he will settle in well in Canberra," McKellar commented on the signing.

"We have seen James play in Super Rugby last season and he showed during his time with the Force that he is a handful on attack. He possesses genuine pace, excellent footwork and is a very skillful player, always looking for work.

"James’ signing gives us good depth in the back-line and he is a promising young talent,"

Verity-Amm said he was excited to be continuing his Super Rugby journey with the Brumbies.

"I am very excited about the prospect of signing for the Brumbies and continuing my rugby career in Canberra," Verity-Amm commented.

"I loved my time at the Force and in Perth and it was unreal making my Super Rugby debut last season, but at the same time I’m very excited to kick-off the 2018 campaign with the Brumbies and contribute as best I can.

"The Brumbies have given me a good opportunity to come to the ACT and fight for a place in the team. It will be a tough challenge but one that I am looking forward to and I can’t wait to get started,"

The Brumbies pre-season campaign kicks off on Saturday, February 3 with a trial match against the Rebels at Seiffert Oval in Queanbeyan.